JP7053582B2 - Glass making equipment and methods - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference of related applications

This application claims the priority benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 378,950 filed on August 24, 2016, the content of which is relied upon and, by reference, fully set forth in the following description. As incorporated herein.

The present disclosure relates generally to methods and devices for controlling the flow rate of the molten material, and in particular to methods and devices for controlling the flow rate of the molten material at a downstream position of the glass manufacturing device including the glass manufacturing processing unit.

Glass manufacturing in a glass manufacturing apparatus including a glass manufacturing processing unit is known. It is also known to control the flow rate of the molten material in the glass manufacturing process.

The following is a brief summary of the present disclosure for a basic understanding of some exemplary embodiments presented in detail.

In some embodiments, the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position of the glass manufacturing process is to place the molten material at a downstream position with respect to the flow direction of the molten material using a shaft portion including a plurality of protrusions. It may include a step of mixing at an upstream position located further upstream. The method calculates the step of measuring the torque of the shaft part, the step of measuring the height of the molten material at the upstream position, and the step of measuring the viscosity of the molten material at the upstream position based on the measured torque and the measured height. It may include the steps to be performed. The method may include a step of estimating the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and a step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate.

In some embodiments, the step of controlling the flow rate may include a step of comparing the estimated flow rate with a predetermined flow rate.

In some embodiments, the flow rate controlling step may include adjusting the temperature of the molten material at a midstream position located between the upstream and downstream positions based on the estimated flow rate.

In some embodiments, the step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position can regulate the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position.

In some embodiments, the step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position can provide the molten material at a controlled flow rate at the downstream position, the method of adjusting the glass ribbon from the molten material. It may further include the step of forming at the same flow rate.

In some embodiments, the step of measuring the height of the molten material may include measuring the height of the molten material relative to the length of the shaft.

In some embodiments, the step of measuring the torque of the shaft portion may include a step of rotating the rotor mounted on the shaft portion relative to the stator. In some embodiments, the stator may be arranged to receive a signal from the rotor without physical contact with the rotor.

In some embodiments, the rotor may be mounted on the shaft between the two non-conducting connectors.

In some embodiments, the rotor can be mounted on the shaft using a double flex connector disposed between the rotor and the plurality of protrusions.

In some embodiments, the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position of the glass manufacturing processing unit is a step of forming a glass ribbon from the molten material at a flow rate and a method of forming the glass ribbon from the molten material. It may include a step of calculating the flow rate of. The method may include calculating the viscosity of the molten material at an upstream position located upstream of the downstream position in the direction of flow of the molten material. The method may include an estimation of the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and the calculated flow rate, and a step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate.

In some embodiments, the step of calculating the flow rate of the molten material formed from the glass ribbon may include a step of separating the glass sheet from the glass ribbon and a step of measuring the weight of the glass sheet. ..

In some embodiments, the step of estimating the flow rate may include a step of estimating the first flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and a step of estimating the second flow rate based on the calculated flow rate. .. In some embodiments, the step of controlling the flow rate may include a step of comparing the first estimated flow rate and the second estimated flow rate with a predetermined flow rate.

In some embodiments, the flow rate controlling step is based on a first estimated flow rate and a second estimated flow rate at a midstream position located between the upstream and downstream positions of the temperature of the molten material. It may include a step of adjusting.

In some embodiments, the steps of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position are a first temperature control step based on a first estimated flow rate and a second temperature control step based on a second estimated flow rate. And can be included.

In some embodiments, the first temperature control step and the second temperature control step can be performed at different points in the process of the glass manufacturing process.

In some embodiments, the first temperature control step and the second temperature control step can control the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position.

In some embodiments, the first temperature control step and the second temperature control step can provide a molten material at a controlled flow rate at a downstream position, the method of which is to remove the glass ribbon from the molten material. , The steps of forming at a regulated flow rate may be included.

In some embodiments, the method may include mixing the molten material in an upstream position using a shaft that includes a plurality of protrusions. The method calculates the step of measuring the torque of the shaft part, the step of measuring the height of the molten material at the upstream position, and the step of measuring the viscosity of the molten material at the upstream position based on the measured torque and the measured height. It may include the steps to be performed.

In some embodiments, the step of measuring the height of the molten material may include measuring the height of the molten material relative to the length of the shaft.

In some embodiments, the step of measuring the torque of the shaft portion may include a step of rotating the rotor mounted on the shaft portion relative to the stator. In some embodiments, the stator may be arranged to receive a signal from the rotor without physical contact with the rotor.

The embodiments are exemplary and may be implemented alone or in any combination with any one or more embodiments set forth herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. .. In addition, both the schematic description as described above and the detailed description below provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and characteristics of embodiments as described, described and claimed in the present disclosure. It should be understood that it is intended to be provided. The accompanying drawings are included for further understanding of the embodiments and are incorporated herein by them to form part thereof. The drawings show various embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description of the specification, serve to explain the principles and operations of the present disclosure.

These and other features, embodiments, and advantages of the present disclosure will be further understood by reading with reference to the accompanying drawings.

An exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment disclosed herein is schematically shown. A typical portion of the glass manufacturing apparatus of FIG. 1, including a method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material, is schematically shown. The area of the glass manufacturing apparatus shown by reference number 3 in FIG. 2, which includes an exemplary torque sensor, is schematically shown.

Here, with reference to the accompanying drawings showing exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the method is described more completely below. Use the same reference numbers wherever possible to refer to the same or similar parts throughout the figure. However, this disclosure can be implemented in many different embodiments and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments presented herein.

Generally, a glass sheet can be made by pouring a molten material into a foam that can be formed by various ribbon forming processes, such as float, slot draw, down draw, fusion down draw. , Updraw, press roll, or any other forming process. Next, the glass ribbon produced by any of these treatments can be divided to provide one or more glass sheets suitable for further treatment for the desired use. It may include, but is not limited to, use in display devices, lighting, photovoltaic devices, or any other use that benefits from the use of high quality glass sheets. For example, one or more glass sheets may be used in various display devices including a liquid crystal display (LCD), an electrophoresis display device (EPD), an organic light emitting diode display device (OLED), a plasma display panel (PDP), and the like. Can be done.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus 101 for processing, manufacturing, and forming a glass ribbon 103. The glass manufacturing apparatus 101 can operate to provide the glass manufacturing processing unit 100, and in some embodiments, the processing unit is any one or more of the glass manufacturing equipment 101 disclosed herein. Can include the features of. For illustration purposes, the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 and the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 are shown as a fusion downdrawing apparatus and processing unit, but in some embodiments, an updraw, a float, a press roll, and a slot draw are shown. Other glass manufacturing equipment including, and / or a glass manufacturing processing unit may be provided. As shown, the glass making apparatus 101 may include a melting tank 105 oriented to receive the batch material 107 from the storage vessel 109. The batch material 107 may be introduced by a batch delivery device 111 driven by a motor 113. Any control unit 115 may be operated to operate the motor 113 so that the batch delivery device 111 can introduce the desired amount of the batch material 107 into the melting tank 105, as indicated by the arrow 117. The height of the molten material 121 in the stand pipe 123 can be measured by using the glass melting probe 119, and the measured information can be transmitted to the control unit 115 via the communication line 125.

The glass manufacturing apparatus 101 may also include a clarification tank 127 located on the downstream side of the melting tank 105 in the direction in which the melting material 121 flows and connected to the melting tank 105 via a first connecting pipe 129. In some embodiments, the melt material 121 can be gravity fed from the melt tank 105 to the clarification tank 127 via a first connecting pipe 129. For example, gravity can send the melt material 121 from the melt tank 105 to the clarification tank 127 through the inner passage of the first connecting pipe 129. In the clarification tank 127, air bubbles can be removed from the molten material 121 by various techniques.

The glass manufacturing apparatus 101 may further include a mixing chamber 131 located on the downstream side of the clarification tank 127 in the direction in which the molten material 121 flows. In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 131 includes a shaft portion 150 that includes a plurality of protrusions 151 (eg, stirring blades) and may mix the molten material 121 in the mixing chamber 131. The mixing chamber 131 is used to provide the melt material 121 with a uniform composition, thereby reducing or eliminating the non-uniformity present in the melt material 121 leaving the clarification tank 127. Can be done. As shown, the clarification tank 127 may be connected to the mixing chamber 131 via a second connecting pipe 135. In some embodiments, the molten material 121 can be gravity fed from the clarification tank 127 to the mixing chamber 131 through a second connecting tube 135. For example, gravity can send the molten material 121 from the clarification tank 127 to the mixing chamber 131 through the inner passage of the second connecting pipe 135.

The glass manufacturing apparatus 101 may further include a delivery tank 133 located on the downstream side of the mixing chamber 131 in the direction in which the molten material 121 flows. The delivery tank 133 can adjust the molten material 121 supplied to the glass forming portion 140. For example, the delivery tank 133 may function as a storage unit and / or a flow rate control unit to regulate the flow of the molten material 121 and provide a constant flow to the glass forming unit 140. As shown, the mixing chamber 131 may be connected to the delivery tank 133 via a third connecting pipe 137. In some embodiments, the molten material 121 can be gravity fed from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery tank 133 through a third connecting tube 137. For example, gravity can deliver the molten material 121 from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery tank 133 through the inner passage of the third connecting pipe 137.

As further shown, the delivery pipe 139 may be arranged to deliver the molten material 121 to the glass forming section 140 of the glass making apparatus 101. The glass forming portion 140 can draw the molten material 121 to the glass ribbon 103 from the bottom edge portion (for example, the root portion 145) of the forming tank 143. In the illustrated embodiment, the forming tank 143 may include an inlet 141 oriented to receive the molten material 121 from the delivery pipe 139 of the delivery tank 133. In some embodiments, the forming tank 143 may include a groove oriented to receive the molten material 121 from the inlet 141. The forming tank 143 further comprises a pair of downwardly sloping and converging surface portions, the surface portion extending between the opposing ends of the forming wedge portion at the root portion 145. Can merge. In some embodiments, the molten material 121 can flow from the inlet 141 to the groove of the forming tank 143. Next, the molten material 121 can overflow from the groove and flow downward on the outer surface of the corresponding weir by simultaneously flowing over the corresponding weir. Next, each flow of the molten material 121 flows along a surface portion that slopes downward and converges below the forming wedge and is drawn away from the root portion 145 of the forming tank 143, where the flow converges. Then, it is fused to the glass ribbon 103. Next, a glass ribbon 103 having a width “W” of the glass ribbon 103 extending between the first vertical edge portion 147a of the glass ribbon 103 and the second vertical edge portion 147b of the glass ribbon 103 is drawn by a fusion draw. It can be pulled out from the root part 145.

In some embodiments, the thickness of the glass ribbon 103 between the first main surface of the glass ribbon 103 and the second main surface on the opposite side thereof is, for example, from about 40 micrometers (μm) to about 3 Millimeters (mm), eg, about 40 micrometers to about 2 millimeters, eg, about 40 micrometers to about 1 millimeter, eg, about 40 micrometers to about 0.5 millimeters, eg, about 40 micrometers to about 400 microns. It can be a meter, eg, about 40 micrometers to about 300 micrometers, eg, about 40 micrometers to about 200 micrometers, eg, about 40 micrometers to about 100 micrometers, or, for example, about 40 micrometers. , In a further embodiment, other thicknesses may be used. Further, the glass ribbon 103 comprises various compositions including glass, ceramic, glass-ceramic, soda lime glass, borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass, alkali-containing glass, non-alkali glass, or any combination thereof. It can be included and is not limited to them.

In some embodiments, the glass making apparatus 101 may include a glass separator 149. As shown, the glass separating section 149 may be disposed downstream of the glass forming section 140 and oriented to separate the glass sheet 104 from the glass ribbon 103. In embodiments of the present disclosure, various glass separators 149 may be provided. For example, a moving anvil machine may be provided in which the glass ribbon 103 is notched and then cut along the notched line. In some embodiments, the glass separator 149 pulls the glass sheet 104 from the glass ribbon 103 to the glass ribbon between the first vertical edge 147a of the glass ribbon 103 and the second vertical edge 147b of the glass ribbon 103. It may include lasers, scratches, instruments, robots, etc. that may operate to separate along a separation path parallel to the width "W" of 103.

As shown in FIG. 2, in order to disclose the present invention, the upstream position 201, the midstream position 202, and the downstream position 203 are used to specify various regions of the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 with respect to the direction in which the molten material 121 flows. are doing. The upstream position 201, the midstream position 202, and the downstream position 203 correspond to the corresponding components of the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 that may be located in a particular region and the corresponding glass manufacturing processing unit 100 that may be performed in that particular region. May include processing. The relative spatial positions of the upstream position 201, midstream position 202, and downstream position 203 are shown, but are merely illustrated and are intended to limit their spatial positions unless otherwise stated. do not. Therefore, the terms upstream, midstream, and downstream refer to the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 when the molten material 121 moves from the upstream position 201 to the midstream position 202 and further to the downstream position 203 through the glass manufacturing apparatus 101. It should be interpreted in relation to the processing position in. That is, the downstream position 203 is located on the downstream side of the upstream position 201 in the direction in which the molten material 121 flows, and the middle flow position 202 is located between the upstream position 201 and the downstream position 203 in the direction in which the molten material 121 flows. ..

Therefore, any one or more processes at the upstream position 201 are performed before any one or more processes at the midstream position 202 and before any one or more processes at the downstream position 203. It should be understood that it is possible. Similarly, any one or more processes at the downstream position 203 may be performed after any one or more processes at the upstream position 201 and after any one or more processes at the midstream. Similarly, any one or more processes at midstream position 202 are performed after any one or more processes at upstream position 201 and before any one or more processes at downstream position 203. It can be done.

In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can be formed at a rate corresponding to the mass or weight of the glass formed per unit time, the rate of which is at the downstream position 203 of the glass manufacturing process 100. The flow rate of the molten material 121 is shown. For example, in some embodiments, the flow rate of the molten material 121 flowing from the glass forming portion 140 (eg, flowing away from the root portion 145 of the forming tank 143) and formed onto the glass ribbon 103 is the flow rate of the molten material 121 to produce glass. The flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 of the processing unit 100 can be defined. In some embodiments, one or more factors may contribute to the flow rate of the molten material 121 at downstream position 203. For example, the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 may be based, at least in part, on the viscosity of the molten material 121. Further, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be at least partially based on the temperature of the molten material 121 and the material composition of the molten material 121. In some embodiments, the low viscosity melt material 121 provides, for example, a higher flow rate of the melt material 121 at a downstream position 203 than the higher viscosity melt material 121, and the higher viscosity melt material 121 is at the downstream position 203. Can provide a relatively low flow rate of the molten material 121. Therefore, a feature of the present disclosure is that the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be controlled by controlling the viscosity of the molten material 121.

In some embodiments, the characteristics of the glass ribbon 103 can be controlled by controlling the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 of the glass manufacturing processing unit 100. For example, by controlling the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203, the thickness of the glass ribbon 103, the change in the thickness over the width “W” of the glass ribbon 103, the width “W” of the glass ribbon 103, and the glass. The temperature of the ribbon 103, the stress in the glass ribbon 103, the optical quality of the glass ribbon 103, and any one or more of the other parameters and attributes of the glass ribbon 103 can be controlled. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 having a uniform thickness can be provided by providing the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 with a constant (eg, constant) flow rate over a period of time. So, such a glass ribbon has less stress concentration than, for example, a glass ribbon 103 formed with a molten material 121 flowing at a non-constant (eg, fluctuating, variable) flow rate over the same period. It can be a thing. Therefore, in some embodiments, changes in the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can affect the quality characteristics of the glass ribbon 103 and control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203. This can reduce the unwanted properties of the glass ribbon 103 and improve the quality of the glass ribbon 103.

Furthermore, it was observed that the variability of the flow rate of the molten material 121 increased as the flow rate itself increased. That is, it was observed that the variability of the flow rate was low when the flow rate was relatively low, while the variability of the flow rate was observed when the flow rate was relatively high. The higher the variability of the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203, the more the thickness of the glass ribbon 103, the change in the thickness over the width “W” of the glass ribbon 103, the width “W” of the glass ribbon 103, and the glass ribbon. Thus, the flow rate can increase the temperature of the 103, the stress in the glass ribbon 103, the optical quality of the glass ribbon 103, and the variability of any one or more of the other parameters and attributes of the glass ribbon 103. The higher the value, the stronger this correlation, and without the controls disclosed herein, the quality of the glass ribbon 103 can be further reduced. Therefore, the feature of the present disclosure can not only improve the quality of the glass ribbon 103 manufactured at that flow rate, but can also be adopted in the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 to increase the flow rate of the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 (for example, increase). Can be made). By increasing the flow rate, the throughput of the glass ribbon 103 in the same period can be increased, so that the cost can be reduced and the processing efficiency can be increased.

In some embodiments, the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 of the glass manufacturing process 100 is to place the molten material 121 at an upstream position 201 located upstream of the downstream position 203 (eg, for example). In the mixing chamber 131), the step of mixing using the shaft portion 150 including the plurality of protrusions 151 may be included. For example, FIG. 3 schematically shows a part of the upstream position 201 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 shown by reference number 3 in FIG. 2, and includes a mixing chamber 131. As illustrated, the glass making apparatus 101 may include an exemplary torque sensor 220 and an exemplary height sensor 230. The torque sensor 220 includes a rotor 219 and a stator 218, and the rotor 219 may be configured to move relative to the stator 218. The relative movement of the rotor 219 with respect to the stator 218 defines the torque 221 at the shaft 150, which the torque sensor 220 is configured to operate to perform any one or more of the methods of the present disclosure. Any one or more controls (eg, programmable logic) that have been (eg, "programmed", "encoded", "designed", and / or "manufactured"). Can be transmitted to the controller).

In some embodiments, the torque sensor 220 can be a wireless torque sensor 220 in which the rotor 219 and the stator 218 can communicate wirelessly (eg, without physical contact) with each other. For example, in some embodiments, the rotor 219 comprises an antenna oriented to transmit the signal wirelessly to the stator 218, which receives the signal wirelessly from the rotor 219. Can include receivers oriented towards. In some embodiments, the wireless torque sensor 220 is capable of acquiring torque 221 at the shaft portion 150 with a more accurate signal as compared to, for example, other torque sensors including an in-line torque sensor. Other torque sensors such as, in some embodiments, include mechanical components connected to the shaft 150 and in physical contact with each other. Physical contact between the mechanical components of other non-radio torque sensors can cause friction, which can reduce the accuracy and precision of the torque sensor measuring the torque at the shaft 150. On the other hand, since the rotor 219 and the stator 218 of the wireless torque sensor 220 are not physically in contact with each other, the wireless torque sensor 220 has no friction between the moving portions. Therefore, when the wireless torque sensor 220 is adopted, the influence of friction can be eliminated, so that more accurate torque measurement can be realized with higher accuracy.

Further, in some embodiments, the radio torque sensor 220 may provide higher signal accuracy and more precise signal resolution for relatively high accuracy detection and more precise torque measurement. Therefore, the wireless torque sensor 220 can detect smaller torque changes with higher accuracy than the in-line torque sensor. It is possible to calculate the judgment value of the viscosity of the molten material 121 with the corresponding high accuracy using the detected smaller torque change, and similarly, using the viscosity, with the corresponding high accuracy. , The flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be controlled. In some embodiments, the rotor 219 may include a thermocouple that measures the temperature of the rotor 219 to ensure that it does not exceed, for example, the maximum operating temperature of the torque sensor 220. In some embodiments, the stator 218 may include a signal quality detector capable of measuring the quality of the signal transmitted from the rotor 219 to the stator 218, eg (indicating accurate torque measurement). A strong, uninterrupted signal can be ensured to be transmitted from the rotor 219 to the stator 218. As described, by controlling the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203, the undesired properties of the glass ribbon 103 can be reduced and the quality of the glass ribbon 103 can be improved.

As shown in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the mixing chamber 131 may include a wall portion 161 having an inner surface 162 defining a molten material storage area 165. In some embodiments, the shaft portion 150 extends into the molten material containment area 165 of the mixing chamber 131, and the plurality of protrusions 151 may be located within the molten material 121 in the molten material containing area 165. .. By moving the shaft portion 150, the plurality of protrusions 151 can be moved accordingly to mix the molten material 121 in the mixing chamber 131. For example, in some embodiments, the shaft portion 150 may include an upper shaft portion 150a and a lower shaft portion 150b. The upper shaft portion 150a is driven (for example, rotated and stirred) by a motor, an actuator, or another device (not shown), and its movement is transmitted from the upper shaft portion 150a to the lower shaft portion 150b. Thus, the plurality of protrusions 151 can be moved within the molten material 121. In some embodiments, a machine comprising an upper shaft portion 150a, a lower shaft portion 150b, an upper connecting portion 153 capable of connecting the upper shaft portion 150a, and a lower connecting portion 154 capable of connecting the lower shaft portion 150b. It is possible to connect using a target connection part. In some embodiments, the upper connecting portion 153 connects the upper shaft portion 150a to the rotor 219 of the torque sensor 220, and the lower connecting portion 154 connects the lower shaft portion 150b to the rotor 219. sell. Therefore, when the upper shaft portion 150a is driven (for example, when it is rotated), the rotor 219 and the lower shaft portion 150b can be rotated as well.

In some embodiments, the upper non-conducting connector 155 is between the upper shaft portion 150a and the rotor 219, between the upper connecting portion 153 and the rotor 219, and / or between the upper connecting portion 153 and the upper side. Arranged between the shafts 150a, the rotor 219 may be electrically shielded from electrical signals and interference that may be transmitted from the upper shaft 150a to the rotor 219. Similarly, the lower non-conducting connector 156 is between the lower shaft portion 150b containing the plurality of protrusions and the rotor 219, between the lower connecting portion 154 and the rotor 219, and / or below. Arranged between the side connecting portion 154 and the lower shaft portion 150b, the rotor 219 may be electrically shielded from electrical signals and interference that may be transmitted from the lower shaft portion 150b to the rotor 219.

By arranging the rotor 219 of the torque sensor 220 on the shaft 150 between the upper non-conducting connector 155 and the lower non-conducting connector 156, the rotor 219 is electrically driven from electrical signals and interference. Can be blocked by. For example, the electrical component of the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 and other electrical components arranged at positions where the electrical signal from the electrical component can interact with the rotor 219 are the operation of the torque sensor 220. Interference can degrade the communication signal between the rotor 219 and the stator 218 and / or reduce the measurement accuracy of the torque 221 of the torque sensor 220. Therefore, by disposing the rotor 219 of the torque sensor 220 on the shaft portion 150 between the upper non-conducting connector 155 and the lower non-conducting connector 156, more accurate and reliable torque measurement can be performed. Going on, it may then provide a more accurate and reliable calculation of the viscosity of the molten material 121.

In some embodiments, mechanical vibrations and other movements of the lower shaft portion 150b can result in misalignment between the rotor 219 and the stator 218, for example, while moving within the molten material 121. The misalignment between the rotor 219 and the stator 21 can reduce the strength of the communication signal between the rotor 219 and the stator 218, and further reduce the accuracy of torque measurement. Therefore, in some embodiments, the lower coupling portion 154 may include a double flex coupler that compensates for the misalignment between the lower shaft portion 150b and the rotor 219. For example, the double flex connector has a first degree of freedom in the axial direction that can reduce axial misalignment along the axis of the shaft portion 150 of the rotor 219, and a radial position that is perpendicular to the axial direction. A connecting portion having two degrees of freedom may be included, including a second degree of freedom in the radial direction which can reduce the deviation. In some embodiments, the double flex coupler reduces or / or eliminates the transmission of mechanical vibrations and other movements of the lower shaft portion 150b to the rotor 219. Thereby, the communication signal strength between the rotor 219 and the stator 218 can be increased, and the accuracy of torque measurement can be further improved.

In some embodiments, the height 231 of the molten material 121 in the mixing chamber 131 may specify, for example, at least in part, the torque 221 at the shaft portion 150. That is, since the torque 221 at the shaft portion 150 represents the rotational force at the shaft portion 150 that rotates the shaft portion 150, the torque 221 is a molten material in which the shaft portion 150 and the plurality of projecting portions 151 rotate. It can change in response to changes in height 231 of 121. Therefore, by measuring both the torque 221 at the shaft 150 and the height 231 of the molten material 121, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be calculated more accurately and correspondingly at the downstream position 203. The flow rate of the molten material 121 can be controlled more accurately. In some embodiments, the height sensor 230 comprises any one or more of a probe, an optical sensor, an electrical sensor, and any other sensor within the molten material storage area 165 of the mixing chamber 131. The height 231 of the molten material 121 with respect to the length of the shaft portion 150 can be measured.

Although not shown, in some embodiments, the top surface of the molten material containing area 165 may be covered with a lid to seal the molten material containing area 165. Similarly, in some embodiments, the mixing chamber 131 may be arranged within a housing (not shown) to provide a controlled atmosphere and protect the mixing chamber 131 from disturbances. In some embodiments, the second connecting pipe 135 provides the molten material 121 from the second connecting pipe 135 to the mixing chamber 131, and the third connecting pipe 137 provides the molten material 121 to the mixing chamber 131. Can be provided to the third connecting tube 137. In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 flows the molten material 121 through the molten material accommodating region 165 of the mixing chamber 131, and the molten material 121 passes through the molten material accommodating region 165 of the mixing chamber 131. It may operate to provide a glass manufacturing process 100 that may include a step of mixing the molten material 121 as it flows. For example, the shaft portion 150 and the plurality of protrusions 151 may move (eg, rotate) within the molten material storage region 165 of the mixing chamber 131 to mix the molten material 121. While the molten material 121 is being mixed, the torque sensor 220 can measure the torque 221 at the shaft 150, the higher the measured torque, the higher the viscosity of the molten material 121, while the higher the measured torque. It is understood that the lower the measured torque, the lower the viscosity of the molten material.

Further, in some embodiments, the molten material accommodating area 165 further comprises an accommodating portion capable of holding the molten material 121 in either a stationary or non-stationary state, and the molten material 121 (eg, further comprising the molten material 121 (eg, the molten material 121). Any one or more of passages that can flow (without treatment) and accommodating or passages that result in further treatment of the molten material 121 and interaction with the molten material 121 (eg, mixing, heating, cooling, etc.). Can be defined. In some embodiments, the molten material containment area 165 comprises a free surface of the molten material 121, where a portion of the inner region of the mixing chamber 131 may not be occupied by the molten material 121. Instead, in some embodiments, the internal region of the mixing chamber 131 is completely occupied by the molten material 121 so that the molten material accommodating area 165 becomes the molten material 121 all around the molten material accommodating area 165. Can abut. As described above, although the mixing chamber 131 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 is disclosed in the present specification, the viscosity of the molten material 121 is determined in the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 and the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 by using the method and the apparatus of the present disclosure. It should be understood that it can be measured at any one or more positions of. Similarly, although disclosed herein as controlling the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203, the method and apparatus of the present disclosure may be used to arbitrarily control the flow rate of the molten material 121 in the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 and the glass manufacturing processing unit 100. It should be understood that the flow rate of the molten material 121 at one or more of the positions can be controlled.

Referring to FIG. 2 again, the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 is the step of measuring the torque 221 of the shaft portion 150 and the height 231 of the molten material 121 at the upstream position 201. Can include steps to be performed. For example, at the upstream position 201, the torque sensor 220 may measure the torque 221 at the shaft portion 150, and the height sensor 230 may measure the height 231 of the molten material 121 in the mixing chamber 131. In some embodiments, the measured torque 221 can be processed through any filter 222 prior to being provided to the flow rate estimator 225 to eliminate noise, harmonics, and other electrical interference. Similarly, the measured height 231 can be processed through any filter 232 before being provided to the flow rate estimator 225 to eliminate noise, harmonics, and other electrical interference. The flow rate estimation unit 225 can calculate the viscosity of the molten material 121 at the upstream position 201 based on the measured torque 221 and the measured height 231 of the molten material 121. Next, the flow rate estimation unit 225 can estimate the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 (as indicated by the arrow 240) based on the calculated viscosity. In some embodiments, the estimated flow rate 240 can be estimated using any one or more flow rate equations (eg, Hagen-Poiseuille's law) that indicate the relationship between fluid flow and fluid viscosity. In that case, the viscosity can be based, at least in part, on the measured torque 221 and the measured height 231 of the molten material 121. In some embodiments, the estimated flow rate 240 can be determined based on experimental data, one or more transfer functions, and other calculations that estimate the flow rate of the fluid as a function of the viscosity of the fluid.

It should be understood that the flow rate estimation unit 225 of the present disclosure is predictive in that it provides the estimated flow rate 240 at the downstream position 203. That is, in the flow rate estimation unit 225, for example, the molten material 121 whose viscosity is calculated at the upstream position 201 passes from the upstream position 201 to the downstream position 203 through the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 (for example, without disturbance). If it continues, it is possible to determine what the flow rate of the molten material 121 is at the downstream position 203. In particular, the estimated flow rate 240 is determined before the glass ribbon 103 is formed at the downstream position 203. Therefore, the flow rate estimation unit 225 determines what the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 is when the glass ribbon 103 is formed from the molten material 121 having the calculated viscosity and the corresponding flow rate. Can be estimated. Therefore, since the flow rate estimation unit 225 has predictability, it can be predicted that it will occur in the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 before it occurs. Therefore, if necessary, it is possible to perform a corrective action before an undesired condition occurs. For example, the estimated flow rate 240 may be provided to the feedforward control unit 245. The feedforward control unit 245 can control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 based on the estimated flow rate 240. In some embodiments, the flow rate controlling step may include comparing the estimated flow rate 240 with a first predetermined flow rate 246.

In some embodiments, the method may include forming the glass ribbon 103 from the molten material 121 at a certain flow rate and calculating the flow rate of the glass ribbon 103 from the molten material 121 formed from it. For example, as shown by reference number 250, in some embodiments, the step of calculating the flow rate of the molten material 121 formed from the glass ribbon 103 is a step of separating the glass sheet 104 from the glass ribbon 103. , The step of measuring the weight of the glass sheet 104 may be included. Similar to the measured torque 221 and the measured height 231 the measured weight 250 of the glass sheet 104 is processed through an arbitrary filter 251 before being provided to the flow calculator 253 for noise, harmonics, and so on. And other electrical interference can be eliminated. The flow rate calculation unit 253 can calculate the flow rate of the molten material 121 formed from the glass ribbon 103 (as indicated by the arrow 254). In some embodiments, the sensor may be configured to determine the calculated flow rate of the molten material 121 formed from the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 is wound around a spool, the weight of the spool after winding is measured, and the flow rate calculation unit 253 is used to determine the calculated flow rate 254 of the molten material 121. sell.

It should be understood that the flow rate calculator 253 of the present disclosure is action-based in that it provides the calculated flow rate 254 at downstream position 203. That is, the flow rate calculation unit 253 can determine, for example, the actual flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 from the molten material 121 based on the characteristics of the glass ribbon 103 formed at that flow rate. Therefore, the property of the flow rate calculation unit 253 that is based on the action can be detected after the occurrence in the glass manufacturing processing unit 100. Therefore, if a corrective action is required, it can only be done after an undesired event has occurred. For example, the calculated flow rate 254 may be provided to the feedback control unit 255. The feedback control unit 255 can control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 based on the calculated flow rate 254. In some embodiments, the flow rate controlling step may include comparing the calculated flow rate 254 to a second predetermined flow rate 256.

In some embodiments, the second flow rate estimation unit, which includes a feedforward control unit 245 and is a predictive flow rate estimation unit 225, and a feedback control unit 255 and is action-based, features a second flow rate estimation unit. , Each may be used alone or in combination. For example, in some embodiments, the feedforward signal 247 from the feedforward control unit 245 may be provided to the overall control unit 265. Similarly, in some embodiments, the feedback signal 257 from the feedback control unit 255 may be provided to the overall control unit 265. In some embodiments, only the feedforward signal 247 can be used to control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at downstream position 203. Further, in some embodiments, only the feedback signal 257 can be used to control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203. Further, in some embodiments, the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 can be used together to control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203.

In some embodiments, the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 are continuously used in an iterative process any one or more times to continuously control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at downstream position 203. It can be done. In some embodiments, the feedforward signal 247 can be determined at the same time as or at different times from the feedback signal 257. For example, during the operation of the glass manufacturing processing unit 100, the feedforward signal 247 may be determined at the same interval as the feedback signal 257 or at a different interval. Since the feedforward signal 247 is predictive in some embodiments, the feedforward signal 247 may be determined more frequently than the feedback signal 257 to compensate for short-term changes within the glass manufacturing process 100. On the other hand, since the feedback signal 257 is based on action, the feedback signal 257 can be determined at a lower frequency than the feedforward signal 247 to compensate for changes over a longer period of time within the glass manufacturing process 100. In some embodiments, by using both the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257, the flow rate of 121 of the molten material at the downstream position 203 can be, for example, a method using only the feedback signal 257, or a feed. It can be controlled more accurately than the method using only the forward signal 247. Therefore, the methods and devices of the present disclosure using both the feedforward control unit 245 and the feedback control unit 255 more accurately control the viscosity of the molten material 121 in some embodiments, resulting in a downstream position. The flow rate of the molten material 121 at 203 can be controlled more accurately to provide improved quality glass.

In some embodiments, a third predetermined flow rate 266 may also be provided to the overall control unit 265. In some embodiments, one or both of the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 can be compared to a third predetermined flow rate 266. In some embodiments, one or both of the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 are the first predetermined flow rate 246 in the feedforward control unit 245 and the second in the feedback control unit 255, respectively. When already compared to the predetermined flow rate 256, the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 will not be compared to the third predetermined flow rate 266 when sent to the general control unit 265. However, before being sent to the general control unit 265, either one or both of the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 are sent to the feedforward control unit 245 with the first predetermined flow rate 246 and the feedback control unit, respectively. If the 255 does not compare with the second predetermined flow rate 256, then the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 are sent to the general control unit 265, and then the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 are sent. , Can be compared with a third predetermined flow rate 266. The third predetermined flow rate 266 may correspond to the desired flow rate from which the glass ribbon 103 having a particular attribute is formed. The third predetermined flow rate 266 may be the same as (for example, equal to) the first predetermined flow rate 246 provided to the feedforward control unit 245 and the second predetermined flow rate 256 provided to the feedback control unit 255. Even) Good. In some embodiments, the predetermined flow rate can be a constant value. Further, in some embodiments, a predetermined flow rate may be modified to, for example, change the attributes of the corresponding glass ribbon 103 formed at that flow rate. For example, using the glass manufacturing apparatus 101 and the glass manufacturing processing unit 100, at least in part, any one or more characteristics that can be determined based on cost, efficiency, customer requirements, and other considerations. Any one or more glass ribbons with attributes can be formed.

In some embodiments, comparing the estimated flow rate 240 from the feedforward control unit 245 with a first predetermined flow rate 246 may indicate a particular embodiment in which the flow rate of the molten material 121 should be controlled. Similarly, in some embodiments, comparing the flow rate 254 calculated from the feedback control unit 255 with the second predetermined flow rate 256 may indicate a particular embodiment in which the flow rate of the molten material 121 should be controlled. In some embodiments, the estimated flow rate 240 from the feedforward control unit 245, the calculated flow rate 254 from the feedback control unit 255, and the third predetermined flow rate 266 (eg, in the overall control unit 265). By comparison, it is possible to indicate a specific aspect in which the flow rate of the molten material 121 should be controlled. Therefore, as indicated by the arrow 270, the flow rate control signal 270 can be provided to control the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203. It should be understood that the flow control signal 270 may include at least one of a feedforward signal 247 from the feedforward control unit 245 and a feedback signal 257 from the feedback control unit 255. For example, when the flow rate of the molten material 121 is controlled by using only the feedforward signal 247, the flow rate control signal 270 may include the feedforward signal 247 from the feedforward control unit 245. When the flow rate of the molten material 121 is controlled by using only the feedback signal 257, the flow rate control signal 270 may include the feedback signal 257 from the feedback control unit 255. In some embodiments, when the feedforward signal 247 is used in conjunction with the feedback signal 257 to control the flow rate of the molten material 121, the flow control signal 270 is a feedforward signal 247 from the feedforward control unit 245. And the feedback signal 257 from the feedback control unit 255 may be included.

In some embodiments, the feedforward signal 247 and the feedback signal 257 are used together, the method may include calculating the viscosity of the molten material 121 at the upstream position 201. The method may include estimating the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity (eg, in the flow rate estimation unit 225) and based on the calculated flow rate 254 (eg, in the flow rate calculator 253). The method controls the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 based on the flow rate 240 estimated from both the flow rate estimation unit 225 including the feedforward control unit 245 and the flow rate calculation unit 253 including the feedback control unit 255. May include steps to be performed. For example, in some embodiments, the steps of estimating the flow rate include a step of estimating a first flow rate (eg, feedforward signal 247) based on the calculated viscosity and a second flow rate (eg, feedback signal). 257) may include an estimation step based on the calculated flow rate 254. As shown in the overall control unit 265, in some embodiments, the steps of controlling the flow rate include a first estimated flow rate (eg, feedforward signal 247) and a second estimated flow rate (eg, eg). It may include a step of comparing the feedback signal 257) with a third predetermined flow rate 266.

In some embodiments, the step of controlling the flow rate may include controlling the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202 located between the upstream position 201 and the downstream position 203. For example, in some embodiments, the glass making apparatus 101 may include a temperature control unit 275 (eg, heating system, cooling system) to regulate the temperature of the molten material 121 at midstream position 202. By adjusting the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202, the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be adjusted. For example, by increasing the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be decreased, and then the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be increased. Conversely, by lowering the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be increased and then the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be reduced. In some embodiments, if the temperature at midstream position 202 is not regulated, the viscosity of the molten material 121 remains the same as the viscosity of the glass calculated at upstream position 201, in which case downstream position 203. The flow rate of the molten material 121 in 1 also remains unchanged and corresponds to the estimated flow rate 240. In some embodiments, adjusting the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202 provides the molten material 121 with a controlled flow rate at the downstream position 203, thus the method comprises the glass ribbon 103. It may include a step of forming from the molten material 121 at a controlled flow rate.

In some embodiments, the steps of controlling the flow rate are such that the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202 is determined by a first estimated flow rate (eg, feedforward signal 247) and a second estimated flow rate (eg, feedforward signal 247). For example, it may include a step of adjusting based on the feedback signal 257). Therefore, in some embodiments, the step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202 is a first temperature control step based on a first estimated flow rate (eg, feedback signal 247), and A second temperature control step based on the second estimated flow rate (eg, feedback signal 257) may be included. In some embodiments, the first temperature control step and the second temperature control step can be performed different times during the processing of the glass manufacturing processing unit 100. In some embodiments, the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be adjusted by performing the first temperature control and the second temperature control. In some embodiments, the first temperature control and the second temperature control provide a flow rate regulated molten material 121 at the downstream position 203, thus the method comprises the glass ribbon 103. It may include the step of forming from the molten material at a controlled flow rate.

In some embodiments, if the feedforward control unit 245 determines that the estimated flow rate 240 is higher than the first predetermined flow rate 246, the feedforward control unit 245 responds accordingly to the temperature control unit. A feedforward signal 247 transmitted as a flow control signal 270 to 275 may be transmitted to lower the temperature of the molten material 121 at midstream position 202. By lowering the temperature of the molten material 121, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be increased and the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be lowered. The feedforward control unit 245 and the temperature control unit 275 may perform this operation before the flow rate exceeds a desired value, and thus may provide a flow rate adjusted so that a high quality glass ribbon 103 can be formed. Similarly, if the feedforward control unit 245 determines that the estimated flow rate 240 is less than the first predetermined flow rate 246, the feedforward control unit 245 controls the temperature of the feedforward signal 247 accordingly. It can be transmitted to section 275 to raise the temperature of the molten material 121 at midstream position 202. By raising the temperature of the molten material 121, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be lowered and the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be increased. The feedforward control unit 245 and the temperature control unit 275 may perform this operation before the flow rate becomes less than the desired value, and thus provide a flow rate adjusted so that a high quality glass ribbon 103 can be formed. .. In some embodiments, if the feedforward control unit 245 determines that the estimated flow rate 240 is equal to or within the permissible range of the first predetermined flow rate 246, no action is taken. Instead, the glass manufacturing process 100 may continue the process without adjusting the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202 to provide a flow rate equal to the estimated flow rate 240 at the downstream position 203.

In some embodiments, if the feedback control unit 255 determines that the calculated flow rate 254 is higher than the second predetermined flow rate 256, the feedback control unit 255 accordingly tells the temperature control unit 275. A feedback signal 257 may be transmitted to reduce the temperature of the molten material 121 at midstream position 202. By lowering the temperature of the molten material 121, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be increased and the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be lowered. The feedback control unit 255 and the temperature control unit 275 perform this operation only after the flow rate exceeds a desired value, and thus provide a flow rate adjusted so that the high quality glass ribbon 103 can be formed next. sell. Similarly, when the feedback control unit 255 determines that the calculated flow rate 254 is less than the second predetermined flow rate 256, the feedback control unit 255 sends a feedback signal 257 to the temperature control unit 275 accordingly. It can be transmitted to raise the temperature of the molten material 121 at midstream position 202. By raising the temperature of the molten material 121, the viscosity of the molten material 121 can be lowered and the flow rate of the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 can be increased. The feedback control unit 255 and the temperature control unit 275 perform this operation only after the flow rate becomes less than the desired value, and therefore provide a flow rate adjusted so that the high quality glass ribbon 103 can be formed next. It can be done. In some embodiments, if the feedback control unit 255 determines that the calculated flow rate 254 is equal to or within the permissible range of the second predetermined flow rate, no action is taken. In addition, the glass manufacturing processing unit 100 can continue the processing without adjusting the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202.

In some embodiments, the temperature control unit 275 may provide a signal to heat or cool the molten material 121 at midstream position 202, as indicated by arrow 276. Further, as indicated by arrow 277, the temperature control unit 275 may receive a signal indicating the temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202. Therefore, by comparing the temperature of the received molten material 121 with the provided temperature, the temperature control unit 275 independently sets the temperature at the midstream position 202 to the desired temperature of the molten material 121 corresponding to the desired viscosity. It can be adjusted until it is obtained. In some embodiments, the temperature control unit 275 further receives or does not receive an input for the flow control signal of this method, the molten material 121, in a continuous iterative process, the molten material at midstream position 202. It can operate to heat or cool until the desired temperature of 121 is achieved. Thus, the desired temperature of the molten material 121 at the midstream position 202 provides the molten material 121 with the desired viscosity, which in turn provides the molten material 121 at the downstream position 203 with the desired flow rate, and as a result, its At a flow rate, the glass ribbon 103 of the desired quality can be formed.

It will be found that the various disclosed embodiments may include specific features, elements, or steps described in relation to the particular embodiment. It has been described that a particular feature, element, or process has been described in relation to one particular embodiment, but it is also found that it can be exchanged or combined with other embodiments in various unshown combinations or sequences. Let's go.

As used herein, the original English definite or indefinite article means "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless explicitly stated otherwise. , Should be understood. Thus, for example, the term "element" includes embodiments having two or more such elements, unless it is clear from the context that this is not the case.

As used herein, the range may be expressed from "about" one particular value and / or "about" to another particular value. When representing such a range, embodiments include from that one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when the value is expressed as an approximation with "about", it will be understood that that particular value forms another aspect. Furthermore, it will be understood that the endpoints of each range are important both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, none of the methods described herein is intended to be construed as requiring the steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, if the claims of the method do not actually state the order in which the steps are performed, or the claim or specification does not specifically state that the steps are limited to a particular order. No particular order is intended to be inferred.

Various features, elements, or steps of a particular embodiment may be described using the transition phrase "contains", but using the transition phrase "consisting of" or "substantially consisting of". It should be understood to include other embodiments, including possible embodiments. Thus, for example, alternative embodiments of the apparatus comprising A + B + C include embodiments of the apparatus comprising A + B + C and embodiments of the apparatus substantially comprising A + B + C.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the modifications and variations of this disclosure are intended to be covered as long as they are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in terms of terms.

Embodiment 1
In the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position of the glass manufacturing processing section,
A step of mixing the molten material at an upstream position located upstream of the downstream position in the flow direction of the molten material using a shaft portion including a plurality of protrusions.
The process of measuring the torque of the shaft portion and
The step of measuring the height of the molten material at the upstream position and
A step of calculating the viscosity of the molten material at the upstream position based on the measured torque and the measured height, and
A step of estimating the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity, and
A step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate, and
How to include.

Embodiment 2
The method according to the first embodiment, wherein the step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material includes a step of comparing the estimated flow rate with a predetermined flow rate.

Embodiment 3
The step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material includes a step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at a midstream position located between the upstream position and the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate. The method according to 1.

Embodiment 4
The method according to embodiment 3, wherein the step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position adjusts the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position.

Embodiment 5
The step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position provides the molten material at the adjusted flow rate at the downstream position.
The step of forming the glass ribbon from the molten material at the adjusted flow rate,
The method according to the third embodiment, further comprising.

Embodiment 6
The method according to the first embodiment, wherein the step of measuring the height of the molten material includes a step of measuring the height of the molten material with respect to the length of the shaft portion.

Embodiment 7
The step of measuring the torque of the shaft portion includes a step of rotating the rotor mounted on the shaft portion relative to the stator.
The method according to the first embodiment, wherein the stator is arranged so as to receive a signal from the rotor without physically contacting the rotor.

8th embodiment
The method according to embodiment 7, wherein the rotor is mounted on the shaft portion between two non-conducting connectors.

Embodiment 9
The method according to embodiment 7, wherein the rotor is mounted on the shaft portion by using a double flex connector arranged between the rotor and the plurality of protrusions.

Embodiment 10
In the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position of the glass manufacturing processing section,
A step of forming a glass ribbon from the molten material at the flow rate, and
A step of calculating the flow rate of the molten material formed from the glass ribbon, and
A step of calculating the viscosity of the molten material at an upstream position located upstream of the downstream position in the flow direction of the molten material.
A step of estimating the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and the calculated flow rate,
A step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate, and
How to include.

Embodiment 11
The step of calculating the flow rate of the molten material formed from the glass ribbon includes a step of separating the glass sheet from the glass ribbon and a step of measuring the weight of the glass sheet. The method according to the tenth embodiment.

Embodiment 12
The step of estimating the flow rate includes a step of estimating the first flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and a step of estimating the second flow rate based on the calculated flow rate.
The method according to embodiment 10, wherein the step of controlling the flow rate includes a step of comparing the first estimated flow rate and the second estimated flow rate with a predetermined flow rate.

Embodiment 13
The step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material is to set the temperature of the molten material at the middle flow position located between the upstream position and the downstream position, the first estimated flow rate and the second estimated flow rate. 12. The method of embodiment 12, comprising the step of adjusting based on.

Embodiment 14
The step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position includes a first temperature control step based on the first estimated flow rate and a second temperature control step based on the second estimated flow rate. 13. The method of embodiment 13, which comprises.

Embodiment 15
The method according to embodiment 14, wherein the first temperature control step and the second temperature control step are performed at different time points in the processing of the glass manufacturing processing unit.

Embodiment 16
The method according to embodiment 14, wherein the first temperature control step and the second temperature control step control the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position.

Embodiment 17
The first temperature control step and the second temperature control step provide the molten material at a controlled flow rate at the downstream position.
The step of forming the glass ribbon from the molten material at the adjusted flow rate,
The method according to embodiment 14, further comprising.

Embodiment 18
A step of mixing the molten material at the upstream position using a shaft portion including a plurality of protrusions, and a step of mixing the molten material at the upstream position.
The process of measuring the torque of the shaft portion and
The step of measuring the height of the molten material at the upstream position and
A step of calculating the viscosity of the molten material at the upstream position based on the measured torque and the measured height.
10. The method according to embodiment 10, further comprising.

Embodiment 19
The method according to embodiment 18, wherein the step of measuring the height of the molten material includes a step of measuring the height of the molten material with respect to the length of the shaft portion.

20th embodiment
The step of measuring the torque of the shaft portion includes a step of rotating the rotor mounted on the shaft portion relative to the stator.
18. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the stator is arranged to receive a signal from the rotor without physically contacting the rotor.

105 Melting tank 109 Storage container 111 Batch delivery device 113 Motor 115 Control unit 119 Molten glass probe 123 Stand pipe 127 Clarification tank 131 Mixing chamber 133 Delivery tank 140 Glass forming part 143 Forming tank 149 Glass separation part 150 Shaft part 151 Protruding part 218 Fixed Child 219 Rotor 220 Torque sensor 225 Flow rate estimation unit 230 Height sensor 253 Flow rate calculation unit 275 Temperature control unit

Claims (9)

In the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position of the glass manufacturing processing section,
A step of mixing the molten material at an upstream position located upstream of the downstream position in the flow direction of the molten material using a shaft portion including a plurality of protrusions.
The process of measuring the torque of the shaft portion and
The process of measuring the height of the molten material in the stand pipe ,
A step of calculating the viscosity of the molten material at the upstream position based on the measured torque and the measured height, and
A step of estimating the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity, and
A step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate, and
How to include. The method according to claim 1, wherein the step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material includes a step of comparing the estimated flow rate with a predetermined flow rate. The step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material includes the step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at a midstream position located between the upstream position and the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate. The method according to 1. The step of adjusting the temperature of the molten material at the midstream position provides the molten material at the adjusted flow rate at the downstream position.
The step of forming the glass ribbon from the molten material at the adjusted flow rate,
The method of claim 3, further comprising. The step of measuring the torque of the shaft portion includes a step of rotating the rotor mounted on the shaft portion relative to the stator.
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the stator is arranged so as to receive a signal from the rotor without physically contacting the rotor. In the method of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position of the glass manufacturing processing section,
A step of forming a glass ribbon from the molten material at the flow rate, and
A step of calculating the flow rate of the molten material on which the glass ribbon is formed , and a step of calculating the flow rate.
A step of calculating the viscosity of the molten material at an upstream position located upstream of the downstream position in the flow direction of the molten material.
A step of estimating the flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and the calculated flow rate,
A step of controlling the flow rate of the molten material at the downstream position based on the estimated flow rate, and
How to include. The step of calculating the flow rate of the molten material on which the glass ribbon is formed includes a step of separating the glass sheet from the glass ribbon and a step of measuring the weight of the glass sheet. The method according to 6 . The step of estimating the flow rate includes a step of estimating the first flow rate based on the calculated viscosity and a step of estimating the second flow rate based on the calculated flow rate.
The method according to claim 6 or 7 , wherein the step of controlling the flow rate includes a step of comparing the first estimated flow rate and the second estimated flow rate with a predetermined flow rate. A step of mixing the molten material at the upstream position using a shaft portion including a plurality of protrusions, and a step of mixing the molten material at the upstream position.
The process of measuring the torque of the shaft portion and
The process of measuring the height of the molten material in the stand pipe ,
A step of calculating the viscosity of the molten material at the upstream position based on the measured torque and the measured height.
The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8 , further comprising.

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